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Dinosaurs, Gnomes and Holiday Lights are Fun for the Whole Family!

By Lindsay Keller, Publisher of Macaroni Kid Skokie, Niles, Park Ridge, and Far Northwest Chicago December 12, 2020

Are you looking for the perfect holiday activity that actually gets you out of the house and is fun for the whole family? Look no further than Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo! They have something for everyone in the family.

The holiday lights are always my favorite. From synchronized light shows to life sized lighted animal sculptures I can't wait to see what's around the next corner. And Brookfield Zoo's Holiday Magic did not disappoint! There is a 600 foot lighted tunnel with lights synchronized to music. Roosevelt Fountain has spotlights moving to music and is surrounded with decorated Christmas trees. There are tons of lights to see.




My daughter loves scavenger hunts. When we are out for a walk, she is constantly asking me what she can look for and find. So the Game of Gnomes was perfect to keep her entertained. There are 24 gnomes hidden throughout the zoo, just waiting to be found. The gnome map will give you their general locations, but finding their exact locations is up to you. And don't worry--you can even play in the dark! All the gnomes are lit up in some way to make them easier to find when the sun goes down.




And what kid doesn't like dinosaurs? Dinosaurs have been hanging around the zoo for a little while now, so some of them decided to get dressed up for the festivities. Kids can even get up close and personal with a couple!




Although Santa isn't visiting this year, there are plenty of other photo ops from Santa selfies to a polar bear pulled sleigh and more! The animal statues are decked out in holiday attire and there is a huge globe of colored lights for visitors to go inside and snap a selfie.



Kids can drop off a letter to Santa while they are there, and the animals are accepting letters too!

I love seeing all the lights, but there are other perks to visiting Holiday Magic as well. We have been spending so much time inside. So, this was a great opportunity for us to get outside and get moving and for my daughter to burn off some energy. They also have snacks and drinks available for purchase, and there is plenty of room to social distance. 

Brookfield Zoo's Holiday Magic is a must this holiday season and is open on select days through December 31, 2020. Head over to their website to purchase tickets (advanced ticket purchase required).


*I was provided complimentary tickets in exchange for this review, but the opinions expressed are my own.*